Speaking to the Sun Online, a spokesperson from Comic Relief said: “We encourage re-use as much as possible. Red Noses, for example, are collectible toys, and we encourage customers to re-purpose their Nose – that may be for a fancy dress accessory, art project or a game.

“For those who don’t want to keep their Noses, Sainsbury’s offers the opportunity to bring them back into store to be recycled.

“We recognise our responsibility to ensure that all of our campaign products which raise so much for good causes are as environmentally friendly as possible.

“In terms of our strategy moving forwards, we are working with our corporate partners and a responsible sourcing consultancy to explore alternatives and solutions for the future.”

Comic Relief say they encourage re-use as much as possible

Is Red Nose Day on every year?

Comic Relief is a biennial event which means it only takes place every other year.

It used to be held annually until 2002 when Sport Relief was introduced.

Now, Comic Relief falls on odd years, whilst Sport Relief happens in even years – like 2018.

The next Red Nose Day will take place Friday March 15, 2019.

Comic Relief also explained that 65p from the sale of each nose goes to charity as the rest is spent on “production, shipping and distribution.”

They also stated that the official seller Sainsbury’s doesn’t profit from the sale of the noses or take any of the proceeds and noses can be recycled at supermarkets.

According to Comic Relief, over £120million has been raised by Sainsbury’s from the sale of red noses and other merchandise in the past 20 years.

The charity claims 100 per cent of sale profits are put towards projects in the UK and worldwide.

The British charity was founded in 1985 and aims to raise money for poor and disadvantaged people in the UK and the world’s poorest communities.

Tom Martin

According to Comic Relief, over £120million has been raised by Sainsbury’s from the sale of red noses[/caption]

Many people have taken to social media to share why they are boycotting buying the red noses this year.

One person wrote: “Tomorrow is red nose day. Shame only 65p of the £1.25 actually goes to Comic Relief. Shame as well that the noses are made of plastic. #RedNoseDay2019 #plasticfree #plasticpollution #charity.”

Another Twitter user added: “Is it true that Comic Relief only get 65p from each red nose and that the majority of the noses end up in landfill as another piece of plastic? Why don’t you ask people to donate £1 and just paint their noses red instead?”

Is it true that Comic Relief only get 65p from each red nose and that the majority of the noses end up in landfill as another piece of plastic? Why don’t you ask people to donate £1 and just paint their noses red instead?

And one person commented: “Don’t buy a Red Nose it’s plastic and harmful to the planet and an outdated idea. Donate for comic relief without these!”

And a school wrote: “The noses sold by Comic Relief are single use, non-recyclable and only 65p goes to charity! Instead Have your nose painted for a donation of £1.25 ALL of which will go to Comic Relief. By having your nose painted, you also will be helping to reduce plastic pollution!”

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